Cyanotic Heart Defects

Cyanotic heart defects are abnormal openings between the heart chambers that allow oxygen-poor blood from the right side of the heart to mix with oxygen-rich blood from the left side of the heart. When a large amount of oxygen-poor blood mixes with oxygen-rich blood, it causes a bluish tint (cyanosis) in the skin, lips, and nail beds.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

John Pope, MD - Pediatrics

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology

Last Revised

October 11, 2011

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.